Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste

Located in the heart of the Pauillac appellation in Bordeaux, France, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste stands as a testament to centuries of winemaking excellence. Renowned for its rich history, impeccable terroir, and commitment to producing exceptional wines, this prestigious estate has become a symbol of the Bordeaux wine tradition.

A Historical Perspective

The story of Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste dates back to the 16th century when the property was originally owned by the Guiraud family. A member of the Bordeaux Parliament, M. de Guiraud's descendants saw the estate pass through female lines, changing names with each successive marriage. It was the marriage of François Lacoste to Marie-Jeanne de Saint Guirons in the 19th century that bestowed the property with the name Lacoste, and later "Grand-Puy Saint-Guirons."

Pierre-Frédéric Lacoste, an enterprising man deeply devoted to his estate, rebuilt the château in 1855. This same year marked Grand-Puy-Lacoste's official recognition in Bordeaux's Great Classified Growths, securing its place among the "elite." Pierre-Frédéric's commitment to quality and the meticulous care of the vineyards laid the foundation for the estate's enduring reputation.

The 1855 Classification

The significance of Grand-Puy-Lacoste's inclusion in the 1855 classification cannot be overstated. Commissioned by Emperor Napoléon III during the first Universal Exposition, this classification aimed to create a hierarchy of France's great wines. Grand-Puy-Lacoste was classified as a "fifth growth," a designation it still holds today, though many experts argue for its elevation.

The estate's reputation was already recognized in 1776 when Dupré de Saint-Maur ranked "Saint Guirons & Lacoste" fifth among Pauillac estates. This reputation grew, solidifying with the 1855 classification and enduring through the years. Today, connoisseurs and critics acknowledge the remarkable improvement in the wine's quality over time and consider it one of Bordeauxs best.

Remarkably, Grand-Puy-Lacoste's vineyard size and composition have remained unaltered since 1855. The estate, passed down through generations, embodies an exceptional historical and traditional legacy. It changed hands several times over the centuries, eventually falling under the ownership of the Borie family in 1978. Today, François-Xavier Borie oversees the operations, maintaining the estate's commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.

Vineyards and Winemaking

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste’s 136 acres of vineyards benefits from a prime location within the Pauillac appellation, situated between the illustrious Château Latour and Château Lynch-Bages. Comprising 75 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Merlot, and 5 percent Cabernet Franc, the vineyard's composition mirrors the classic Bordeaux blend, ensuring complexity and depth in every bottle.

The soil, a quintessential Médoc mix of gravel, sand, and a touch of clay, forms the foundation for the vines. The combination of well-draining soils and the maritime influence of the Gironde estuary creates optimal conditions for the vines to thrive, producing grapes with exceptional depth and complexity.

Beacon of Excellence

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste stands as a timeless symbol of Bordeaux winemaking, blending tradition with innovation to produce wines that captivate the senses. With its storied history, exceptional terroir, and unwavering commitment to quality, this estate continues to be a beacon of excellence in the world of fine wines, inviting enthusiasts to experience the magic of Pauillac with every sip.

Written by: Arabella Maislinger